Volvo Penta's proven D8 engine is enabling performance gains for the Hércules 9.0, increasing working speed by up to 15%, while reducing fuel consumption by up to 20%. The new model from Stara, on display at Agrishow 2026 in Brazil, provides a competitive edge with improved efficiency, strong performance and optimized total cost of ownership (TCO) for agriculture operations.

Volvo Penta has partnered with Stara, a global manufacturer of agricultural equipment, to power its new Hércules 9.0 self-propelled spreader. The latest addition to the market-leading Hércules range expands its lineup with a higher-capacity machine and underscores Volvo Penta's commitment to providing solutions for better productivity within the agriculture market, a key sector in Brazil. The new machine features a 9-ton fertilizer hopper that increases productivity and maximizes uptime for operators by reducing refill time.

“Stara customers who have been operating the Hércules 9.0 with the Volvo Penta engine are experiencing clear productivity gains," says Cristiano Paim Buss, Director of Research and Development at Stara. “Machines equipped with the Volvo Penta D8 are achieving increases of 10–15% in working speed, while reducing fuel consumption by around 15–20%, depending on terrain conditions."

Volvo Penta robust agriculture engines

At the heart of the Hércules 9.0 is the Volvo Penta D8 engine, designed to deliver high power density and strong torque at low engine speeds, enabling efficient, consistent performance in demanding agricultural environments. By operating effectively at lower RPM, the D8 helps reduce fuel consumption and supports smoother machine operation. This can translate into lower operating costs and improved TCO, which are key priorities for farmers and contractors.

“The strong, steady engine torque allows the machine to operate at a consistent speed, enabling an even spread," says Gabriel Barsalini, Head of Volvo Penta Brazil. “The power density of the proven D8 and the robustness of the Volvo Penta solution have impressed Stara and its customers."

In 2025, 11 pilot Hércules 9.0 self-propelled spreaders were delivered to key customers across Brazil and monitored in various working conditions to validate product performance and reliability in the field. Following this testing phase, serial production began, and the first units are due to arrive with customers this month.

“The main advantages we've seen using the Volvo Penta engine are reliability, robustness, and low fuel consumption," says Cristiano. “The engine allows operation with high torque at low RPM, which reduces fuel consumption. The system is very well matched with the machine's distribution system, delivering efficient performance in the field. Another benefit is reduced noise, as the engine operates at lower RPM. This ensures acoustic comfort and less vibration inside the cabin."

Partnering with Volvo Penta

The Volvo Penta partnership approach involves working closely with OEMs. “The partnership with Volvo Penta has proven to be extremely positive, mainly due to their proactive and agile support approach," says Cristiano. “Communication between teams is constant, ensuring quick responses and real-time technical alignment. Another important point is Volvo's openness to listening and working together to make adjustments where needed."

“Hércules and Volvo Penta both have a very strong reputation, which helps maintain the established image and quality of both brands," adds Gabriel. “The engine is a very important component of Stara's products, and we see our partnership as a long-term relationship. Volvo Penta believes that by maintaining the current performance and alignment, there is great potential to expand this partnership in the future."

Volvo Penta at Agrishow

Agrishow, which runs from April 27^th – May 1^st, is the biggest agricultural technology trade show in Brazil and one of the largest in the world. Visitors to the Volvo Penta booth F22b1 will see the D8 engine, which is backed by proven Volvo Group technology. It is ideally suited for the agribusiness sector and machines including sugarcane harvesters, sprayers, spreaders and water pumps, among other applications. Visitors can also see the engine in the Hércules 9.0 self-propelled spreader on Stara's booth, C11a.

Volvo Penta will also highlight its G13 and G17 engines at the show, which are alternative fuel solutions for stationary power. The G13 enables farms to harness biogas and biomethane, while the G17 runs on pipeline-quality conventional natural gas and renewable natural gas and provides reliable, lower-emission performance for larger operations.

Volvo Penta's commitment extends beyond being an engine supplier, with the company delivering a full lifecycle of industrial engine services and solutions. Visitors to Agrishow will also be able to learn about the company's aftermarket support and global service network